The United States has imposed sanctions on Rwanda’s Ministry of Defense and Zigama Credit and Savings Society, a financial institution linked to Rwanda’s security apparatus, for providing support to the March 23 Movement (M23) insurgent group operating in the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC). Thousands of Rwandan Defense Force personnel are actively engaged with M23 forces in North and South Kivu provinces, supplying weapons, training, and advanced military equipment—including surface-to-air missiles and electronic jamming systems—that pose risks to civilian aviation.
These actions breach commitments outlined in the Washington Accords for Peace and Prosperity, signed by both nations in December 2025 under the Trump administration. The agreement called for an end to hostilities and expanded regional cooperation, yet Rwanda’s backing of M23 has undermined these objectives. The U.S. demands immediate cessation of support for M23 and its successor factions, alongside the withdrawal of Rwandan forces from eastern DRC. Additionally, the international community must address illicit exploitation of DRC’s mineral resources, particularly in gold and coltan regions controlled by M23, where civilians endure forced labor, unsafe conditions, and extortionate taxation. Companies are urged to conduct thorough due diligence on supply chains.
Sanctions are imposed under Executive Order 13413, as amended, targeting entities that provide material or financial support to Rwandan military operations. Further details are available in official communications from the Department of the Treasury.